Name: Crispy Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.25 lbs); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Crispy Skillet Chicken with Garlic Herb Butter

CrunchyTomato7761

This crispy skillet chicken is the perfect answer to 'what's for dinner?'—ready in under 30 minutes with layers of flavor and texture. A golden sear locks in juiciness, while a simple garlic herb butter sauce adds vibrant freshness with a pop of lemon. The key is letting the chicken cook undisturbed for a deeply crisp exterior, then finishing it with a quick pan sauce for ultimate savory depth. Serve with a simple salad, roasted potatoes, or rice to catch every drop of buttery sauce.

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter is foaming.
Add chicken thighs to skillet. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes on the first side until deep golden and crisp. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a plate to rest.
Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter to skillet, then stir in minced garlic and thyme. Cook, stirring, just until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Scrape up any brown bits. Return chicken to pan and spoon butter sauce over chicken to coat.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately, spooning extra pan sauce over each piece.